Living in Fort Myers, FL, hurricane preparation is essential, and your air conditioning system is no exception. At Big Air AC, we understand how vital your AC unit is, especially in Florida’s heat. With hurricane season threatening high winds, rain, and potential flooding, taking the right steps to safeguard your AC system can save you from costly repairs and help it last longer.
Here’s what you need to do to prepare your AC system for a hurricane:
1. Turn Off Your AC Before the Storm Hits
As soon as a hurricane watch or warning is issued, the first thing you should do is turn off your AC. High winds and lightning can cause power surges that may damage your system. This is especially true if lightning strikes the power grid or if power is lost and restored in quick bursts. By turning it off at the thermostat and the circuit breaker, you’ll prevent damage to the unit’s internal components.
2. Secure Your Outdoor Unit
Hurricane-force winds can turn anything into flying debris, including items like lawn furniture and branches. This debris can hit your outdoor AC unit, causing serious damage. To protect your system:
Clear the area around the outdoor unit. Remove anything that could be blown around.
If possible, cover the unit with a heavy-duty tarp or a custom AC cover to protect it from rain and flying debris. Make sure it’s securely fastened.
Use hurricane straps to anchor your AC unit to the ground. This can prevent it from being knocked over or displaced during heavy winds.
3. Inspect and Clean Drainage Areas
Heavy rain can cause flooding around your outdoor unit. To prevent water from pooling around your system:
Ensure that drainage paths are clear of debris like leaves, dirt, or mulch.
You may also want to build up the area around your unit with gravel or other drainage solutions if flooding is a consistent problem.
4. Consider Elevating Your Unit
If your area is prone to flooding, you might want to consider elevating your outdoor unit. By raising the unit several feet above ground, you reduce the risk of water damage during heavy rains. This is particularly important if you live in a flood zone or near the coast.
5. Turn Off the Power to the Unit During the Storm
Once you’ve turned off the AC before the storm, go the extra mile by shutting off power at the breaker. This reduces the risk of electrical damage caused by surges or short circuits, which can occur when the power flickers on and off during a storm.
6. Wait to Turn It Back On
Once the storm passes, don’t rush to turn your AC back on. Inspect the unit and make sure it is free of damage. Remove any debris that may have fallen on or near the system. If there’s any standing water or you suspect electrical damage, contact a professional to inspect the system before turning it on.
7. Schedule a Post-Storm Inspection
Even if your AC seems to be working fine after a storm, it’s a good idea to schedule a professional inspection. At Big Air AC, we offer post-storm evaluations to ensure that your system hasn’t suffered any hidden damage. This can prevent more serious problems from developing later on, saving you from expensive repairs.
Why You Should Prepare Your AC for Hurricanes
Taking these steps can save you from unnecessary repairs, extend the life of your system, and ensure that your AC is ready to keep your home comfortable after the storm. Proper preparation also helps to maintain your manufacturer’s warranty, as many warranties do not cover storm damage due to neglect.
At Big Air AC, we’re committed to helping you protect your HVAC system before, during, and after hurricane season. If you need assistance preparing your AC or have any questions about hurricane safety, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Stay safe this hurricane season, and let Big Air AC be your trusted HVAC partner.
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